Fredericton’s Very Own Monster House
Hidden in the streets of downtown Fredericton is a monster house full of children’s book publishers.
Monster House publishing is one of only two New Brunswick children’s book publishers and they’ve been invited to be Canadian delegates at the Frankfurt Book Fair.
McAllister and his team focus on books that represent New Brunswick culture. He said finding their niche is what’s gotten them noticed.
“We’re working on a lot more traditional children’s stories as well. So, really get into the roots of New Brunswick culture. Going back before colonialism and really trying to shine a light on the values of those stories.”
Herman, the main character of McAllister’s Herman the Monster series goes on adventures like performing in battle of the bands competitions and sneaking out to join parades. He is also the publishing house’s mascot.
Monster House publishing sells their books internationally. In Fredericton you can find them on the shelves of Chapters and in local bookstores.
Monster House publishes four children’s books a year and with the help of author and illustrator, Braelyn Cyr, they are able to explore a variety of New Brunswick cultures.
Cyr also acts as a cultural consultant for the publishing house. She focuses on Indigenous children in her books and said she hopes to make Indigenous culture more accessible to children.
“I got into writing Aboriginal children’s books while doing a project for school. I’d come to realize there weren’t a lot of options for Aboriginal children, not only just in Canada but in New Brunswick as well for the Wabanaki youth, Wabanaki confederacy.”
Cyr said after completing the project she was inspired to continue writing books focusing on Indigenous youth.
“As fate happens I ran into Paul one night and he explained the he not only wrote children’s books but also published them. So, we kind of got together and everything slid into place after that.”
Her first project, Mahtoqueh’s Journey is aimed at helping Indigenous children reconnect with their culture.
McAllister said getting to be part of the Frankfurt Book Fair is a huge step for their publishing house but he also can’t wait to explore the city.